SexBomb Girls honored as gay icons
The SexBomb Girls added another milestone to their celebrated comeback after receiving the Gay Icon of the Year award during White Party Manila: Reignite on June 27.
Held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, the event marked the return of one of the country's biggest Pride celebrations after a 12-year hiatus. The evening brought together members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, artists, and public officials for a night of music, performances, advocacy, and recognition.
Representing the iconic dance group were Rochelle Pangilinan, Aira Bermudez, Mhyca Bautista, Jacky Rivas, and Cherry Ann Rondina, who also thrilled the audience with a special performance.
Accepting the award, Rochelle admitted the recognition felt even more meaningful because it came as the group continues to enjoy renewed success through a series of sold-out reunion concerts.
"Sa wakas! Isang karangalan na bigyan niyo po kami ng ganitong klaseng parangal, ang Gay Icon of the Year dito po sa White Party," she said.
She also reflected on the timing of the recognition.
"Kung kailan kami nagbalik tsaka n'yo kami in-award. Ang tagal na namin nasa industriya. Pero ganoon pa man, dumarating ito in God's perfect timing. At ito ang tamang panahon for that. Maraming, maraming salamat po."
The group, whose catchy songs and signature dance routines became a defining part of early-2000s pop culture, also paid tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community for helping keep the SexBomb phenomenon alive through the years.
"Sa lahat ng pinalaki ng SexBomb dito, sa lahat nang naging bakla dahil sa amin, kayo po ay inspirasyon ng SexBomb. Without you, walang SexBomb. Thank you so much!" they said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
For many members of the LGBTQIA+ community, the SexBomb Girls' music, television appearances, and unforgettable choreography became part of their childhood and coming-of-age memories, making the recognition a fitting tribute to the group's enduring cultural impact.
The award was one of the highlights of White Party Manila: Reignite, which celebrated the LGBTQIA+ community's contributions while recognizing individuals and organizations that have championed inclusion and equality.
The ceremony also honored several public officials as Outstanding Allies of the Year for supporting LGBTQIA+ rights and creating safer, more inclusive communities.
Actor and comedian John "Sweet" Lapus, who introduced the award segment, reminded attendees that allyship goes beyond symbolic gestures.
"Allyship is not just posting a rainbow," he said. "Love is beautiful, yes. But love must have legs. Love must show up. Love must vote. Speak. Build. Protect. Defend. Include. Hire. Listen. Learn."
Among those recognized were Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, represented by Councilors Wency Lagumbay and Christoffer Allan "Tope" Liquigan, as well as Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, who personally received their awards during the program.